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It all began when a person collapsed on the street ....

UVA Health University Medical Center Hospitality and Support Service Administrator Shenia Thompson and BEE Award Committee Chair Allisha Shifflett surprised Sadae Bey, CST, Surgical Technologist, Operating Room (OR), with a BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award.

Colleagues nominated Bey, and commended another team member, for their lifesaving actions during an emergency just outside University Medical Center:

Alexandria 'Ally' Carrier, BSN, RN: "During my lunch break, I noticed a person collapsed in the street with CPR in progress. When I went out to help, Sadae was already out there, ready to assist in any way she could. I was impressed with her quick action in an emergency and wanted to recognize her willingness."

Madeline Heim, BSN, RN: "Sadae was sitting near the Emergency Department windows when she saw a person collapse outside. A nurse walking on the sidewalk already started CPR. Without a second thought, Sadae also ran out to help. She stayed with the nurse, called for more help, and kept the scene organized until more team members arrived. She joined in a six-person lift to get the patient safely onto a stretcher. Later, when I saw her at the operating room board, she mentioned what had happened on her break.

"Sadae said her first thought when she saw the nurse doing compressions was her own basic life support (BLS) training and the need to help. This kind of situational awareness and calmness under pressure exemplifies the best of UVA Health’s ASPIRE values.

"Her actions — along with those of the nurse at the scene — are heroic. They also reflect who Sadae is all the time: someone who supports her peers, never shies away from responsibility, and sees patient care as more than just a job description. Her quick action and compassionate response during her own break reflect not only her skill but also her deep sense of duty to others — a true embodiment of what it means to be exceptional every day.

"Even beyond this remarkable moment, Sadae consistently brings professionalism, positivity, and teamwork to every shift. Whether scheduled or on call, day or night, she radiates a calm and capable presence in the OR. She is reliable, kind, and supportive to everyone she works with!

"I am honored to nominate Sadae for the BEE Award in recognition of her outstanding teamwork, integrity, and commitment to patient and community safety."

Know a Deserving Team Member?

The BEE Award recognizes UVA Health University Medical Center team members who work alongside our nurses to impact patients' experiences — just as bees and flowers depend on one another.

Every month, the Nursing Professional Governance Organization (NPGO) honors up to two UVA Health University Medical Center team members with this award. Submit a nomination.